Hispanic Heritage Month
Hispanic Heritage Month in LA County
National Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the culture, history, and contributions of Hispanic Americans. Observed each year from September 15 to October 15, this annual celebration began in 1968 as “Hispanic Heritage Week” (established by Public Law 90-498) and was expanded to a month in 1988.
The mid-September start honors the independence days of several Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua (September 15); Mexico (September 16); Chile (September 18); and Belize (September 21). El Día de la Raza (Columbus Day) is also recognized on October 12 during the month-long celebration.
LA County Library’s Hispanic Heritage Month Events
Join Hispanic Heritage Month events in LA County with LA County Library’s special programs, activities, and booklists. Explore curated reading lists that highlight Hispanic American culture and history—featuring titles for kids, teens, and adults. Enjoy family-friendly activities such as book clubs, craft-making workshops, and many other cultural events.
Return to this page for the latest Hispanic heritage celebrations in LA County, including additional activities and digital resources to help you honor and learn about the rich traditions of Hispanic communities.
Chicano Resource Center
The Chicano Resource Center at East Los Angeles Library was established to serve the needs of the Mexican-American (Chicano) community and to make information about the history and culture of this group available to the general public.
Digital Collections
Tell Your True Tale
From 2014 to 2017, LA County Library hosted 8 Tell Your True Tale Writing Workshops with author Sam Quinones. Participants in the workshops wrote, edited, and published nonfiction stories as part of a short story collection edited by Mr. Quinones. Stories from all 8 workshops are available to be read on our BiblioBoard.
Foto East LA
Foto East LA is a project to create an online collection of images depicting the history of one of the nation’s most culturally rich communities. From everyday events to extraordinary moments, we’re gathering historical images taken by locals—just like you—who have experienced East LA firsthand. Submit a photo to the collection today.
Digital Resources
OverDrive Hispanic Heritage Month Collection – eBooks and Audiobooks
Kanopy Hispanic American Stories – Movies and TV
Mariachi Playlist on Freegal – Download and Streaming Music
Additional Resources
The Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Latino – In the process of building its home on the National Mall in Washington DC. Meanwhile, they have created a website with virtual exhibitions, teaching, and other learning resources that make this a must-visit for anyone interested in Latin life and history.
Share your Immigration & Citizenship Stories
Los Angeles County is a region of immigrants, and each has a unique and wonderful story to tell. We want to hear yours! Do you remember the day you left? How did you feel when you first became a naturalized citizen? No matter your country of origin or current status, consider sharing your journey with us. Submit your stories in any form such as written narratives (Doc, PDF), images, audio, or video. Submissions will be reviewed and then posted on our BiblioBoard community collections so others can learn and grow from your experiences.
Activity Ideas
All About Frida
Learn about Frida Kahlo, a Mexican artist and feminist icon, best known for her portraits, self-portraits, and her nature-inspired pieces, and one of the most famous and beloved artists of the world. Then create your own artistic masterpiece in the style of Frida Kahlo!
Explore Mariachi
Come celebrate the beauty of Mariachi music, and learn of its importance in the Mexican community, with this collection of resources to help you explore the heart and soul of this cherished art form!
Papel Picado
Make your own Papel Picado, a traditional Mexican craft generally displayed for celebrations and holidays!
